Conceptualisation of ambiguous-mixed-methods within building and construction research

Holt, Gary David and Goulding, Jack Steven (2014) Conceptualisation of ambiguous-mixed-methods within building and construction research. Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology, 12 (2). pp. 244-262. ISSN 1726-0531

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Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/JEDT-02-2013-0020

Abstract

Purpose – The use of mixed-methods research (MMR) within building and construction research (BCR) is studied in detail. A new MMR paradigm, defined as ambiguous mixed-methods research (AMMR), is conceptualised within a BCR context. The paper aims to discuss these issues.
Design/methodology/approach – Informal and inductive methodology combines experiential and anecdotal knowledge with synthesis of extant literature, to detail a cogent representation of the BCR research paradigm continuum. From this, the AMMR design is presented and its conceptualisation highlighted by reference to a small sample of published BCR studies.
Findings – Paradoxically, the BCR paradigm continuum is dichotomous in its quantitative and qualitative extremes; while between these, coalesced paradigms permeate it. Influenced predominantly by worldview, many BCR researchers select a methodology that aligns with either continuum extreme. But, the authors conceptualise, in practice this often relies on ambiguous AMMR characteristics.
Research limitations/implications – AMMR offers BCR research and beyond, a new approach for making, designing and defending methodological decisions.
Originality/value – The AMMR paradigm was designed by the authors and is therefore entirely novel.


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